Search form

Main Menu

You are here

Dance Major Requirements

Dance Major: Overview

Students may select dance as a major through the Performing Arts Department. This course of study combines intensive studio work in technique and theory of modern dance, ballet and composition with seminars examining dance as a global phenomenon with forms reflecting culturally specific historical, aesthetic and anthropological features. The program also includes a broad range of courses such as stagecraft, music resources, improvisation, anatomy for dancers, pedagogy, dance therapy, musical theater dance, world dance forms, jazz and tap. Students also may choose a minor in modern dance, ballet, or world music, dance and theater. The interdisciplinary minor in world music, dance and theater encourages students already interested in the performing arts to explore those outside Euro-American traditions. A certificate program in somatic studies is offered through the University College division of Arts & Sciences.

Students who study dance at Washington University learn from faculty members who have both professional experiences and academic degrees. Students also have the opportunity to study with great artists in residence who teach master classes and set choreography.

Students may also audition for the Washington University Dance Theatre, which holds annual additions for students. Selected students will appear in faculty and guest artist-choreographed concerts in the Edison Theatre. Students may also participate in departmental drama production as well as student work in choreography and theater. Each year, students have the opportunity to attend the regional American College dance Conference to perform and take master classes.

And choose 6 units from among the following. Any of these courses may be taken as an elective if not in fulfillment of the requirement:Dance 315E: Dance Spectrum (3 units)Dance 316E: From Romantic to Postmodern Dance (3 units) note deletion hereDance 340: Ballet as Ethnic Dance and Classical Art (3 units) - Writing IntensiveDance 342: Critical Thinking in Western Theatrical Dance (3 units)Dance 426: Performing the Political in American Dance (3 units)

The dance major must take at least one upper-level course in both ballet and modern dance technique and theory. Course work in at least one of the following is strongly recommended: West African Dance, Classical Indian Dance, Dunham Technique, Musical Theater Dance, Jazz Dance.

Additional Information

Study Abroad: Washington University students can pursue dance abroad during the academic year at the University of Auckland, New Zealand; University of Ghana, Legon; and Roehampton University, London.